When I first read through that comment it didn't register as a slap - but now reading it through again, I see the nuance slipped in by the author.

Oh well, too often judges are deemed authorities or experts in their field ( when maybe they might not be) - but sometimes they're just available. Perhaps Kurt had some time on his hands or plays racquetball with Ev and earned a position - not sure.

I read some of the winning stories - they were good. Better than all others? Well see, now you've entered the land of Subjectivity. Just east of the Twilight Zone and south of Whot?!

I've been there - a rather frenetic place filled with half-done projects, three-wheeled skateboards and high hopes, all trying to earn an extra rung up the ladder. Left as soon as my delivery was done and went back home.

I think there are great writers on Medium, good writers - pedaling hard to become great and those with a pen and paper and a simple desire to author a few words. Power to all of them.

Thanks Grey Hen. Say hi to Cornwall for me. 😊👍